Five common grant application mistakes and how to avoid them

You’ve invested time and energy into searching for the perfect grant to help fuel your business growth and you finally find one that seems like a fit for your organisation. You’ve crafted your application, but something still feels off. 

If you find yourself wrestling with anxieties like these as deadlines approach, you’re not alone. To help steer you clear of pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the top five mistakes that might be hindering your grant application success—and how to avoid them.

1. Lack of clarity

The problem:

A common mistake that occurs is when applicants find the perfect grant opportunity but fail to provide a clear outline of their project’s funding needs. Details matter and uncertainty doesn’t sit well with funding bodies.

The solution:

Before you dive into the application, allocate time for planning. Create a project outline, covering the ‘what,’ ‘how,’ ‘when,’ ‘why,’ and projected impact. Also, craft an itemised budget to accompany your proposal. Keeping a grant calendar can help you stay ahead of deadlines.

2. Inconsistency

The problem:

Sometimes, applicants describe their project creatively, but the budget fails to mirror this narrative. The result? A confused review board likely to discard your application.

The solution:

Ensure that your budget aligns with your project description. Be as descriptive as possible in detailing how the funds will be used. The goal is to convey a sense of direction and purpose and connect the funding needs to the project outcomes.

3. Absence of a clear funding need statement

The problem:

It’s critical to clarify the role funding will play in your project. Excluding this information will frustrate funding bodies – they may be inclined to skip to the next proposal.

The solution:

End your project description with a compelling funding needs statement. For example:

“The requested funding will cover [specific costs], with the aim of empowering [beneficiaries] to achieve [project objective].” Leave no room for guessing!

4. Neglecting the bigger picture

The problem:

Applicants often overlook the long-term role their project plays in their organisational goals. Make clear how your project will have a lasting impact.

The solution:

Explain in detail how your project fits into the broader mission of your organisation, including measurable outcomes and how you will monitor them. 

5. Failing to demonstrate lasting impact

The problem:

Funding bodies aim to invest in projects that promise long-term benefits. Many applications fall short in communicating this.

The solution:

Explain how your project will have a lasting impact beyond the funding period. Make this a focal point of your application, clearly summarised. Use actual dates and forecasts well into the future.

You’re not alone

While mistakes are a part of any learning process, taking time to review and rectify these common errors not only enriches your application but empowers you to hit that ‘Submit’ button with increased confidence. 

However, you don’t have to go it alone. Our consultants are here to help you navigate the complex world of grants. We can take care of every step of the process for you. Book a free appointment to discuss your needs.